[Massachusetts-NFB] Cambridge chapter May Minutes

[Cullen Gallagher]

Hi everyone!
Looking forward to seeing you all at tonight's Cambridge Chapter meeting, and I'm excited to be back in person. The May Minutes are below.
Thanks,
Cullen
Cambridge Chapter Minutes, May 11, 2026

The May 11, 2026 meeting of the Cambridge Chapter Of the National Federation of the Blind of Massachusetts was held as a hybrid meeting at Cambridge Citywide Senior Center and Zoom. The Meeting was called to order at approximately 6:15 PM.
In Attendance:

Shirley Dorris, President
Sengil Inkiala, Vice President
Cullen Gallagher, Secretary
Mika Pyyhkala, Treasurer
Jen Bose, Board Member
Shara Winton, Affiliate President
Adam Roberge
Shannon Donahue
Jeff Willson
Marc Kelley
Angey Manerson
Samia Page
Shondell Williamson 
Sabrina
Lindell Cooks 
Wesley Taylor 
Rick Camann 
Leicia Chan 
ElizabethAnn Johnson
Jamal Mazrui 
Rachel Kobierecki 
David Ticchi
Helen Kobek
Ken Valentine
Haley
Latha 
Cheryl Smith
Vinod CHawla
Al Sten-clanton
Masha Sten-clanton
Laurie Mattioli 
NFB Pledge

Adam led the NFB Pledge.
New NFB Pledge Incentive

The chapter previously discussed charging a small fee for those who were unable to recite the pledge when called upon to do so. This proposal was controversial. Shirley announced a new incentive: members who recited the pledge correctly would receive a five-dollar Dunkin' gift card.
Special Presentation

A gift card containing donations from the chapters, affiliate, and other donors was presented to Shannon Donahue, who was recovering from hospital stays and surgeries.
Secretary’s Report

Inky moved that the April minutes be accepted. The motion was seconded by Adam and passed unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report

Mika presented the Treasurer’s Report. There was a $60 cash deposit from dues. A gift was also given to Scott Hurley for his help with the walk, including a $50 gift card and an item from American Provisions. The chapter also gave a $100 donation to Shannon Donahue.
Mika reported that he would send the account balance via email.
Ken moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Affiliat President’s Report

NATIONAL CONVENTION

Shara reported that the National Convention would be held July 3–8 in Austin. A board meeting would be held the following Wednesday to determine the amount of financial assistance to be provided. New members were also strongly encouraged to apply for the Kenneth Jernigan Scholarship for first-time attendees next year.
UPCOMING EVENTS

Shara announced that the David Ticchi Walk would be held on October 4, and the Giggle Gala would be held on December 3. The Springfield Chapter would also hold its walk on June 20, and Stephen was researching options for van rentals to transport attendees, similar to what was done a few years ago.
The chapter was also encouraged to develop ideas for Blind Equality Achievement Month in October and to find a way to participate in the national Coast-to-Coast Movement Challenge, which raises funds for the National Parents Division. As an example, the North Shore Chapter was planning a limbo and cardio drumming contest.
As part of this effort, National also wanted someone from each chapter to participate in the 5K in Baltimore.
WICKED GOOD CHAPTER UPDATE

Shara gave an update on the North Shore Chapter, which is known as the Wicked Good Chapter. There were 12 attendees, with seven of them new to the NFB. Meetings would be held at Gallo Nero Italian Restaurant in Peabody. Members would be responsible for the cost of their meals.
Presidential Release

The May Presidential Release  <https://nfb.org/sites/nfb.org/files/2026-04/presidential_release_may_2026_chapter_version_final.mp3>was Played.
Adjournment

The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 PM. The next meeting was scheduled for June 8.
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